Biobest is championing its new Aphidoletes-System packaging, which it has said supports faster population build-up of Aphidoletes aphidimyza.
This in turn improves longevity and fecundity for more effective and sustainable aphid control, the group noted.
”The gall midge Aphidoletes aphidimyza is a highly effective aphid predator,” Biobest outlined. ”Females actively seek out aphid hotspots within the crop, laying up to 100 eggs per infestation.
”Upon hatching, the voracious gall midge larvae immediately get to work feeding on a wide range of aphid species.
A single larva can consume up to 100 aphids, the group said, often killing more than required to feed, resulting in rapid aphid population reduction.
Importantly, it emphasised, Aphidoletes does not cause leaf damage or gall formation.
“Our innovative packaging for Aphidoletes-System features an integrated yellow sugar strip, providing an immediate energy source for newly emerged adults,” explained Biobest crop specialist, Sten Boonen.
“This helps extend the adult lifespan, improves flight capacity and increases fecundity.
”As a result, gall midges establish faster and deliver more effective aphid control in the crop,” he pointed out.
In addition, the integrated sugar source can also benefit other beneficial insects, including parasitoid wasps, hoverflies, and lacewings, further strengthening integrated aphid control within the crop.
“Carefully engineered to create optimal conditions for emergence and mating, the new packaging supports both first and second-generation establishment and stronger population build-up, delivering consistent and reliable performance for growers,” Boonen continued.
Biobest said the fully recyclable, paper-based system includes an integrated push-to-open system and built-in hanging hook.
The system facilitates correct installation within the crop, optimising gall midge introduction and dispersal while ”saving valuable time and labour during application”.
“Our new Aphidoletes-System packaging represents another important step in Biobest’s commitment to innovative, high-performance, and sustainable biological crop protection solutions,” Boonen added.